Fond du Lac County Master Gardener Association

Minutes of the April 10, 2012 Meeting

The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. by President Doug Kindschuh. 31 members were present and 2 guests. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Guests Introductions: Guests present were Julie Helwig, grounds keeper, and Connie Ramthun, Education Coordination, of Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum.

Speaker: Connie Ramthun, Education Coordinator of Gottfried Prairie & Arboretum, presented an interesting presentation on the history and mission of the prairie in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. It included education on the importance of burning in the past and present for the survival of prairie plants. Connie thanked the Fond du Lac Master Gardener organization for their contributions to continue their educational programs.

Day in the Garden: Dolores Braun extended a “Thank you” to everyone for their contributions resulting in making the 2012 event a success. Beth Howman-Combs will chair the Day in the Garden event in 2013. Alice Dann reported a profit of $1450 for the Silent Auction. Dolores indicated the PowerPoint presentation shown at the event will be available for future use.

Plant Sale: Volunteers are needed for the plant sale. Sign-up sheets for volunteers to sign-up were distributed. Members should review DNR materials to ensure that invasive plants are not included for the plant sale.

Master Gardener Laptop: A laptop has been purchased and we are currently loading software programs. Master Gardeners are encouraged to take photos of their projects and furnish to Lin Morris so we can included them on the laptop.

Master Gardener Bus Tour: Janet Tess & Gail Williams reminded all of the first MG bus tour on June 5th. A second bus trip is being planned for July to the Manitowoc and Sheboygan area in July. Register now and invite friends.

Project Work Sheet: A project work sheet will be required in 2012, deadline October 1, 2012, for any and all projects that will desire a budget for 2013. It is suggested that the Project Worksheet be used for all projects; it is mandatory for all that wish to submit a request for monetary support in 2013. Bobbi Thomma has sent the new Project Work sheet to all members electronically.

Mike Rankin: Level II training is proceeding. Beginning MGT training will begin in fall.

“Landscape Smart” KFIZ Radio Program: Volunteers are needed for the Saturday morning Radio show. Please contact Patty Percy or Lin Morris. Training and support is offered.

School Gardening: Sharon Rasmussen reports all is going well at Riverside. Volunteers needed to help with planting at Water School.

Haentze Floral & Greenhouse Tour: MG tour is scheduled for May 22nd, 10:00 a.m.

Alice Dann, Secretary

R:\Ag\Mike\Master Gardener Program\Minutes\4 2012.docx